graduate/professional school application checklist
SUMMER/FALL
_____ Research graduate/professional school programs and requirements
The Career Library has directories that identify programs and provide ratings. Access electronic graduate school catalogs on-line through CollegeSource Online in the Rockefeller's virtual reference collection ( Main Library Site – quick link to “databases -- alphabetical”). Also check www.petersons.com , www.graduateguide.com .
_____ Research financial aid sources, scholarships, and fellowships
Detailed information is at the Career Library, Fellowship Office and Financial Aid. Pick up a copy of the Fellowship Guide in 213 University Hall. For more information check out: www.scholarshiptrak.com , Brown Fellowships, www.fastweb.com .
_____ Request catalogs and applications
Addresses in Peterson's Guide in the Career Library or Web sites listed above. Most schools strongly suggest applying through the online application, where you can track all aspects of your application. Many schools also take paper application requests directly through their Web site.
_____ Determine test requirements, test dates, and application deadlines
Admissions materials will indicate the tests needed for application and final deadline schedules. Test registration information available in the Career Library, or check the following Web sites: www.gre.org , www.lsac.org , www.review.com or www.kaplan.com .
_____ Complete test registration form and take appropriate tests
Pick up bulletin and registration form in the Career Library, other local universities or test prep centers. You may also register online (check Web sites listed above).
_____ Request faculty, administrator, coach or employer letters of recommendation
Dossier service for applying to graduate school programs (except Medicine) available in 108 Pembroke Hall.
Pick up recommendation forms and instructions or print out copies from our Web site.
_____ Write application statements/essays
Help is available from the Career Development Center , Faculty, Deans, and the Writing Center .
Also check www.rpi.edu/dept/llc/writecenter/web/gradapp.html and http://gradschool.about.com/msubessay.htm?once=true& .
FALL/WINTER
_____ Submit applications, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and required fees by deadline
Be sure all materials arrive at the school by the deadline. Call graduate school to confirm they have received all materials. Keep a record of online application confirmation emails. Note that during peak times, transcript requests can take up to 10 business days.
_____ Attend graduate/professional school forums and presentations
Graduate school fairs are held regionally during the fall, and admissions officers visit Brown to provide application and financial aid information.
SPRING
_____ Visit schools and contact current students and alumni of program
Once accepted, try to visit the school, attend classes, talk with current grad students or alumni to discover in-depth information about the graduate student life and career possibilities in the future.
_____ Discuss acceptances and career options
Call on Faculty, Deans, and Career Development Center staff for different perspectives.
ADVISING RESOURCES AT BROWN
Graduate School Advising
Faculty in each specific discipline will be the best source for advice, although Deans, Career Development staff, and Brown alumni in the field will be helpful, too.
Law School Advising
Dean Perry Ashley, 213 University Hall, x3-2539
Career Development Center , 108 Pembroke Hall, x3-3326
Business School Advising
Dean Perry Ashley, 213 University Hall, x3-2539
Career Development Center , 108 Pembroke Hall, x3-3326
Medical School Advising
Dean Andrew Simmons, 108 Rhode Island Hall, x3-2781
RESOURCES ON THE WEB
The Princeton Review
www.princetonreview.com
Test tips, financial aid, and related links for Graduate, Business, Law and Medical School .
Peterson's Education Center
www.petersons.com
Search over 30,000 graduate programs and 900 MBA programs.
About.com
http://gradschool.about.com/library/weekly/aa081102a.htm
Very comprehensive overview of the admissions process.
Selecting a Law School
http://www.napla.org/selecting.htm
Excellent article for those considering or evaluating J.D. programs.
www.mba.com
Excellent comprehensive website for general MBA information
07/06/05